New online photos reveal Justin Bieber has shaved his head, removing his controversial dreadlocks following a backlash over the Rastafarian hairstyle.
While Bieber never publicly responded to the cries of cultural appropriation over his 'do, fans and media outlets are speculating the singer's drastic new look was an attempt to quash the controversy.
The 'Peaches' hit-maker debuted his dreadlocks on Instagram in April, immediately drawing criticism from disappointed fans.
"This is cultural appropriation... I know you can do better," one comment read.
"Why is Justin Bieber really out in the world with some dreads for real?" another asked.
"Like bro, your team, your WIFE was like YES this is a great decision?"
"Didn't you say you were educating yourself about Black culture? So what is this foolery?" asked a third.
In a post about racial injustice shared by Bieber in June last year, the singer said he was "inspired by Black culture" and admitted he had "benefited" from it.
"My style, how I sing, dance, perform, and my fashion have all been influenced and inspired by Black culture," he said.
"I am committed to using my platform this day forward to learn, to speak up about racial injustice and systemic oppression, and to identify ways to be a part of much needed change."
Many fans felt Bieber's dreadlocks showed he hadn't learnt about cultural appropriation and racial systemic oppression at all.
Still, the singer's newly shaved head prompted celebrations from many.
"I'm throwing a party, the real Justin is back, no more cultural appropriation," one comment on an Instagram snap of Bieber's close shave read.
"Much better than the previous hairstyle," wrote another.
